The Monsoon Session of Parliament witnessed fresh disruptions on Thursday as both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned amid vociferous protests by Opposition MPs over multiple issues, including the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) exercise in Bihar and alleged arrests of labourers in BJP-ruled states.
The Lok Sabha was adjourned till 2 PM during the Question Hour after Opposition members stormed the well of the House, shouted slogans, and waved placards. Speaker Om Birla expressed dismay over the unruly behaviour and appealed for constructive dialogue. “Has the public chosen you for sloganeering and showing placards? Parliament is a platform for discussion, not disruption,” he remarked before adjourning proceedings.
Simultaneously, the Rajya Sabha was adjourned till 12 noon by Deputy Chairman Harivansh following a protest by Opposition leaders. They demanded a discussion under Rule 267, which calls for suspension of business to debate urgent issues. The chair, however, rejected the demand, prompting the Opposition to escalate their protest.
Outside Parliament, Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi joined members of the INDIA bloc in a demonstration at Makar Dwar, reiterating their opposition to the Bihar SIR exercise and recent arrests in BJP-led states.
Despite the disruption, the Rajya Sabha was scheduled to take up key legislative matters later in the day, including:
- A statutory resolution to extend President’s Rule in Manipur by another six months, starting August 13, 2025. Union Home Minister Amit Shah is set to move this resolution under Article 356 of the Constitution.
- Consideration and passage of the Carriage of Goods by Sea Bill, 2025, already cleared by the Lok Sabha. Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal will table the bill, which defines the responsibilities, liabilities, and rights of sea carriers.
- A motion by Minister of State Dr L. Murugan for the election of 10 Rajya Sabha members to the Committee on the Welfare of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) for a one-year term.
The Monsoon Session has so far been marred by repeated adjournments, with the Opposition pressing for discussions on issues they deem crucial, while the government continues its legislative agenda.